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iPhone 12 vs iPhone 13: In-Depth Comparison

Compare the Apple iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 to see whether the newer phone is worth the extra cash
Which? Team
iPhone 12 vs iPhone 13

In this article

Compare two of Apple's most popular smartphones to see what they have in common, and which features stand out.

  • Overall test score (members only)
  • Bottom line
  • Which? test lab verdict (members only)
  • Similarities and differences
  • Full test results (members only)
  • Specifications

iPhone 12 vs iPhone 13: test score

iPhone 12 vs iPhone 13: bottom line

Amy Axworthy, Which? mobile phones expert, says:

Amy Axworthy

The differences between the cameras on the iPhone 12 and the iPhone 13 are noticeable. With the 13 you get sensor-shift image stabilisation, cinematic mode, and fun photographic styles to explore. Its battery is bigger, too.

We love to recommend older phones that get you a lot of the good stuff for a lot less money. The iPhone 12’s price looks tempting, however, there’s a chance it will lose security support in October 2026, so won’t be a long-term investment.

Which? test lab verdict

Which? members can get the verdict from our lab results, and see our full test scores. Already a member? Log in here.

What's the main difference between the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13?

Key Similarities

  • Both feature a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display.
  • Both support 5G networks for faster download and upload speeds.
  • Both have a similar design with flat edges and an aerospace-grade aluminum frame.

Key Differences

  • The A15 Bionic processor on the iPhone 13 claims improved performance and efficiency vs the A14
  • The iPhone 13's improved camera system claims better low-light performance and more photographic customization options.
  • The iPhone 13 claims better battery life, allowing for longer usage between charges.
  • The iPhone 13's smaller notch offers a slightly larger display area for content viewing.
  • The iPhone 13 has slightly enhanced MagSafe capabilities for better accessory compatibility and charging efficiency.

Read our full lab-tested review of the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13, and check prices below. 

iPhone 12 vs iPhone 13: test results

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iPhone 12 vs iPhone 13: full specs 


iPhone 12iPhone 13
Current pricesSQUIRREL_TEXT_12853175SQUIRREL_TEXT_12853089
Security

Currently supported*YesYes
Estimated security support expiry date*Oct-26Sep-27
Estimated minimum remaining security support (years)*23
Brand update policy*Apple typically supports phones for a minimum of six yearsApple typically supports phones for a minimum of six years
Display

* Currently supported – whether the phone is still supported with important security updates from the manufacturer. Estimated security support expiry date – our estimate for when this phone will no longer be supported, based on typical manufacturer and device-specific support periods. Estimated minimum remaining security support (years) – our estimate of the minimum time left before this phone stops receiving updates. Brand update policy – the brand's official update policy, or our knowledge of how long similar phones have been supported.

Why you can trust our mobile phones tests

Our reviews of the iPhone 12 vs iPhone 13 are different – we don't rate phones based on individual experience, but based on the ratings and results we receive from our independent lab, where phones are tested under identical conditions using cutting edge equipment, which means they're all directly comparable. We also purchase every phone we test ourselves, so you can trust that there is no bias in our scores.

  • A Which? overall score is made up by testing various criteria, from key ratings such as battery life, camera performance, ease of use, audio quality and durability. 
  • Behind each of those ratings includes more than 40 individual tests and checks that are weighted differently. This means that the most important things, such as the quality of your pictures and videos, will more greatly impact the score than features such as how easy it is to use the phone’s music player. 
  • To keep things simple, the most important scores are shown as star ratings out of five on each phone’s Test Results page, as an easy-to-compare list of strengths and weaknesses, so you can quickly work out whether a model is right for you.
  • For more, read our guide on how we test mobile phones. 

At Which? we’re 100% editorially independent and work entirely on behalf of the consumers.

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